What Makes Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle Stand Out?
The Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle promises to revolutionize the way we manipulate our large-frame ARs. Manufactured by Devil Dog Concepts, this charging handle aims to provide a more ergonomic and efficient charging solution compared to the traditional rear charging handle setup, particularly appealing to those seeking faster follow-up shots and easier manipulation under stress. It boasts easy installation and adaptability to various AR-10/AR308 platforms, making it a compelling upgrade for many shooters.
For years, I’ve wrestled with the traditional charging handle on my AR-10, especially when running optics or trying to maintain a solid cheek weld. I needed a solution that would allow me to charge the rifle quickly and efficiently without disrupting my shooting position, which led me to explore side charging options. The allure of a non-reciprocating system that wouldn’t interfere with optics or cheek weld made the Devil Dog Concepts offering particularly attractive.
Unboxing the Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle revealed a well-machined piece of kit. The tactical handle felt solid and the overall construction appeared robust, giving me confidence in its durability. Its weight was negligible, not adding any noticeable bulk to my rifle.
I considered other side charging options, including complete side charging upper receivers. However, the Devil Dog Concepts system stood out due to its ease of installation and the fact that it didn’t require a complete upper receiver swap, making it a more budget-friendly and less time-consuming upgrade. The simplicity of installation and the potential for improved ergonomics swayed my decision.
My initial impression was excitement tempered with cautious optimism. The concept was fantastic, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios. I couldn’t wait to get it installed and run it through its paces at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and mild, providing ideal conditions for testing. My focus was on evaluating the ease of charging, speed of follow-up shots, and overall comfort and ergonomics.
The initial charging felt significantly smoother and more natural compared to the traditional rear charging handle. Being able to keep my firing hand on the grip while charging the rifle drastically improved my speed and control. There were no immediate issues during the first few magazines, and the side charging handle functioned flawlessly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and hundreds of rounds downrange, the Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile upgrade. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the mechanism continues to operate smoothly. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for optimal performance, but the system is easy to maintain.
Compared to my previous experience with the standard charging handle, the Devil Dog Concepts system is a clear winner. It allows for much faster and more fluid charging, leading to improved accuracy and quicker follow-up shots. This system has definitely outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle
Specifications
The Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle is designed for AR-10/AR308 platforms, offering a rear-mounted side charging solution. It is compatible with .308 Winchester caliber rifles and features an ambidextrous design. The handle is made of aluminum and comes with a folding tactical handle for ease of use and storage.
The caliber compatibility ensures it works with most AR-10/.308 rifles, while the ambidextrous design makes it accessible to both left- and right-handed shooters. The aluminum construction offers a good balance of strength and weight, contributing to the overall durability and reliability of the system. The folding handle is a smart feature that prevents snagging and allows for comfortable use with various optics setups.
Performance & Functionality
The Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle performs exceptionally well, providing a noticeable improvement in charging speed and efficiency. It offers a smooth and consistent charging experience, allowing for faster follow-up shots and improved control during rapid firing sequences. While extremely effective, it will not work on POF Piston Driven rifles or DPMS G2 and similar models.
Its primary strength lies in its ability to facilitate quicker and more ergonomic charging, but the design also minimizes disruption to the shooter’s sight picture. Some might prefer a forward-mounted charging handle, but the rear-mounted design does not get in the way. Overall, this charging handle has far exceeded expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle is impressive, with well-machined parts and a durable finish. The overall design is intuitive and ergonomic, fitting comfortably in the hand and providing a secure grip. Installation is straightforward, typically requiring only a few minutes.
The system is designed to be user-friendly, with minimal learning curve. The location of the charging handle allows for intuitive manipulation without requiring significant adjustments to shooting technique. This makes it a valuable upgrade for both experienced and novice shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle is built to last, with high-quality materials and a robust design that can withstand the rigors of regular use. Regular cleaning and lubrication are recommended to maintain optimal performance, but the system is easy to disassemble and service. With proper care, this system should provide years of reliable service.
The durable aluminum construction and thoughtful design ensure longevity, even under demanding conditions. The ease of maintenance further contributes to its long-term value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle comes with an aluminum folding handle. This handle can be swapped out for other aftermarket handles, offering some degree of customization. There are no other readily apparent customization options beyond handle choices.
The product’s compatibility with standard AR-10/AR308 platforms ensures that it can be used with a wide range of existing accessories, such as optics and grips. While the charging handle itself is not highly customizable, it integrates seamlessly with other popular accessories.
Pros and Cons of Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle
Pros
- Significantly improves charging speed and efficiency.
- Offers a more ergonomic charging solution compared to traditional rear handles.
- Ambidextrous design caters to both left- and right-handed shooters.
- Durable aluminum construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Simple and easy installation process.
Cons
- Not compatible with POF Piston Driven rifles or DPMS G2.
- Limited customization options beyond handle choices.
Who Should Buy Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle?
The Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle is perfect for tactical shooters, hunters, and competitive shooters who value speed, efficiency, and ergonomics. Anyone looking to improve their AR-10/AR308’s charging system will benefit from this upgrade. It is particularly useful for those who run optics and need to maintain a consistent cheek weld while charging the rifle.
Those who should skip this product include owners of POF Piston Driven rifles or DPMS G2 models, as it is not compatible with these platforms. If you prefer a reciprocating charging handle or are on an extremely tight budget, this might not be the ideal choice.
A must-have modification alongside the Devil Dog Concepts charging handle would be a high-quality bolt carrier group to ensure smooth cycling. Consider a good quality lubricant to keep the charging handle moving freely.
Conclusion on Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle
The Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle is an excellent upgrade for anyone seeking to improve the ergonomics and efficiency of their AR-10/AR308 platform. At $150.00, the price is justified considering the performance gains and enhanced shooting experience it provides.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this product to fellow AR-10/AR308 enthusiasts. If you are tired of the awkwardness of the traditional charging handle and want to experience smoother, faster, and more controlled charging, then the Devil Dog Concepts AR-10/AR308 Rear Mount Side Charging Handle is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference!